Class is always in session; start exploring today.
Welcome to Gardens University, your gateway to learning about Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and the vibrant lifestyle at Mt. San Antonio Gardens. Just like stepping onto a new campus, beginning your CCRC journey can spark both curiosity and questions. That’s why we’ve created this dedicated resource center. A place where prospective residents, families, and lifelong learners alike can explore life at The Gardens through expert insights, engaging videos, and personal stories from those who call this community home.
Here, you won’t just skim the surface; you’ll go beyond the FAQs to understand the heart of community living, wellness opportunities, and the peace of mind that comes with smart planning.
Whether you’re charting your first course or preparing to take the next step, Gardens University offers the knowledge and support to help you navigate with confidence and excitement. Every great life chapter deserves an informed beginning.
*Pricing listed in videos is subject to change annually. For the most current pricing, please email learhart@the-gardens.org.
Virtually Home: DEP: What’s In it for Me?
In this Virtually Home episode, we explain the Deferred Entry Program at Mt. San Antonio Gardens and how it supports proactive senior living planning. Learn how DEP works, the financial and lifestyle benefits it offers, and why many individuals exploring a Life Plan Community choose this flexible option. If you are considering senior living and wondering about the right timing, this short overview will help you understand how planning ahead can provide confidence and peace of mind.
Our Virtually Home series is designed to help you feel confident and informed as you explore life at Mt. San Antonio Gardens. In this episode, The Application, we walk you through the application process step by step so you know what to expect from start to finish. You will learn how to begin your application, what information is needed, important timelines, and what happens next once your application is submitted. Our team is here to support you throughout the process and answer any questions along the way. This video is part of our commitment to transparency, guidance, and peace of mind as you consider your next chapter at Mt. San Antonio Gardens.
This month Virtually Home, your digital connection to the Gardens, is covering common questions many ask when researching CCRCs on financial stability. We’re inviting you to a virtual session where our leadership team will walk through our current financial position, explain the factors that support our stability, and discuss how we’re preparing for the future.
This Virtually Home Series episode is designed for adult children who want peace of mind when choosing a senior living community. Learn how Mt. San Antonio Gardens prioritizes safety through 24/7 security, full-campus emergency readiness, backup power, trained response teams, and continuous support for daily needs.
Finding the right senior living community often comes down to one question: Will my parent be supported while still maintaining their independence? In this episode of our Welcome Home series, we share an inside look at Independent Living at Mt. San Antonio Gardens, where residents enjoy a safe, active, and worry-free lifestyle. From our Wellness Center and restaurant-style dining to reliable maintenance, transportation, and a wide range of social and learning opportunities, every service is designed to support well-being and connection.
This session gives adult children a clear overview of the most common senior living contract types and what to look for when comparing communities. Learn the key differences between contract models, what questions to ask during your search, and how each option can impact long-term care and financial planning. A helpful starting point for choosing the community that best fits your parents’ needs.
Starting the conversation about senior living can be one of the hardest parts of planning for the future. In this episode of Virtually Home, the Mt. San Antonio Gardens team shares helpful tips for approaching your aging parents with care, compassion, and understanding when introducing the idea of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). Learn how to recognize the right time to talk, what language to use, and how to emphasize the benefits of community living, from peace of mind and safety to social connection and wellness.
In this Virtually Home segment, we take a closer look at the benefits of having an onsite clinic at Mt. San Antonio Gardens. Having healthcare available right on campus means residents enjoy faster access to care, fewer transportation challenges, and greater peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones. The clinic is conveniently located within the community, making it easy for residents to receive care without leaving campus. Explore how this service supports wellness, independence, and a higher quality of life at the Gardens.
Our Virtually Home Series has explored the Who, What, Where, and When of life at Mt. San Antonio Gardens. Now, we wrap up with the WOW, where our team shares the moments that make the Gardens truly special. From the beauty of our grounds to the warmth of community connections, discover why residents call this a place to thrive.
Choosing senior living is a big decision, and understanding the value behind an entrance fee is key. In this episode of our Virtually Home Series, we explore why many communities, including Mt. San Antonio Gardens, use an entrance fee model. Learn how it provides long-term security, access to multiple levels of care, and peace of mind for both residents and families. Discover how paying an entrance fee is an investment in your future, offering financial predictability, stability, and the promise of quality care when you need it most.
Location matters when choosing a senior living community. In this episode of our Virtually Home Series, we focus on the where, the importance of a community’s setting, surroundings, and access to the places that enrich your life. From nearby shops, dining, and cultural opportunities to natural beauty and neighborhood connections, discover how the right location can make all the difference in finding your perfect fit. At Mt. San Antonio Gardens, nestled between Claremont and Pomona, residents enjoy the best of both worlds: a vibrant college town atmosphere and the peace of a welcoming neighborhood, creating a place where you can truly thrive.
Making the decision to move into a senior living community is one of life’s biggest transitions, and timing matters. In this episode of our Virtually Home series, we explore the key signs that it may be the right time to prepare for a move, and how planning ahead can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Join us for a helpful session that walks you through the different levels of care available at The Gardens. Learn what to expect, when to plan, and how our continuum of care supports every stage of the journey.
Spend a night in our community and experience life at The Gardens firsthand. This session shares what to expect from our Overnight Program and how it can help you feel confident about your next step.
Join us for an insightful session on how to simplify your space without sacrificing what matters most. Learn practical tips, emotional strategies, and how downsizing can be a positive step toward a more fulfilling lifestyle.
In this episode of our Virtually Home series, we guide you through the important questions to ask when considering different levels of health care. From independent living to skilled nursing, learn what to look for, what makes each level of care unique, and how to find the right fit for your needs or your loved one’s.
Learn how to evaluate emergency readiness in senior living communities. This session covers key safety protocols, communication plans, and what to look for to ensure peace of mind in any situation.
Not all senior living contracts are created equal. In this session, we’ll break down the different types, explain key terms, and help you understand what to look for so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Learn how our Deferred Entry Program allows you to secure your future at The Gardens while continuing to live independently. This session explains the benefits, flexibility, and peace of mind that come with planning ahead.
Make the most of your visit by knowing what to ask. This session highlights five key questions that can help you better understand a community’s culture, care, and commitment, so you can choose with confidence.
Jay Labinger is a Gardens resident, he was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. Jay received his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Harvey Mudd College. He attended Harvard University where he earned a Ph.D. He was an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at the University of Notre Dame. His career has included positions with Occidental Research Corporation & Atlantic Richfield. He is the Administrator of Beckman Institute at the California Institute of Technology as well as a Faculty Associate in the Chemistry Department. He enjoys reading, playing the piano, tennis and traveling. He has published books on the history of chemistry, sociology of science and literature & science. Here at the Gardens, Jay is part of the Conservation & Sustainability Committee the Green Fund as well as many other groups through the Gardens Club.
Jane Hurd is a Gardens resident, she was born & raised in a small town in Arkansas. After she received her BA from the University of Arkansas she moved to California and taught seventh grade English in Porterville CA. After two years she moved to Los Angeles and worked for the Department of Health Services and pursued a master’s degree in public administration from USC. She served as CEO for two Los Angeles area hospitals. She continues to consult as an executive coach for CEOs of healthcare companies. She has served on several boards including Mutual of America Insurance Company, YMCA of Metropolitan LA, LA Visiting Nurses Association and Inland Empire Girl Scouts. Jane is an award-winning author and plays several musical instruments. Here at the Gardens, Jane is part of the newly formed Bequest Committee, as well as many other groups through the Gardens Club.
